Getting ready to relaunch your career? Whether you’ve been a stay-at-home parent or you’re getting back at it after the pandemic, we’ve got tips and resources that’ll make re-entering the workforce a little less stressful.
Relaunching your career is a major investment in yourself. Sure, it takes time and energy, but the resulting experiences and opportunities will be well worth it.
1. Update your resume
A “career break” can help set you apart from other candidates, especially if you took the time to continue learning and growing professionally. Did you take any online courses or earn a degree? Or perhaps you sharpened your leadership skills while volunteering. Applying those newfound skills to your resume can help fill the gaps since your last work experience.
2. Clean up professional and personal accounts
What does your LinkedIn profile look like? Chances are, it could use a refresh. Just like your resume, update it to reflect any new skills, and continue to use the platform to network and post about educational and business-related topics. As for Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. — be mindful of what you post, and who can see it. Nothing’s ever truly private on the Internet, but you can tweak certain settings to better protect the information you’re sharing.
3. Dress for success
Maybe you’ve gotten used to wearing sweatpants on a regular basis during your break from the workforce (we’ve all been there!). But a job interview is your chance to crush your first impression, and it can pay to put a little extra effort into your appearance. Regardless of the job you’re seeking, always aim to look professional and polished. Blazers and button-downs are classics for a reason.
4. Record a new voicemail greeting
“You know what to do. BEEP.” Cue the eyeroll from the recruiter calling to schedule a potential interview. Even worse is when your voicemail isn’t even set up to accept calls! When you’re looking for a new job, it’s worth taking the time to record a professional voicemail greeting that’s both simple and helps the caller confirm they dialed the right number.
5. Create a professional email address
Using an inappropriate or embarrassing email address on your resume won’t score you any interviews. Better to keep it professional and straightforward, like firstname.lastname@email.com. Afterall, email is one of the primary modes of communication today.
6. Prepare for your interview
Review the job description and match your skills to the requirements. Think of past professional examples to prove you have these qualities. Research the company and come prepared with your own questions so you can evaluate whether their culture is a good fit for you. Be sure to review a list of the most commonly asked questions to increase your chances of acing the interview.
7. Know what you want, but learn to be flexible
Maybe you’ve been offered your dream job but it requires a lengthy commute. Or you find out the position you’re interviewing for doesn’t offer much room for professional growth. Whatever the situation is, make a list of dealbreakers and a list of things that would be nice to have. You likely won’t get everything you want but know where you’re willing to compromise.